Superconducting cables and methods of making the same

ABSTRACT

Superconducting cables employ one or more superconducting tapes wound around a former. A compact superconducting cable is configured using a former having a small diameter, e.g., less than 10 millimeters. A flexible superconducting cable is configured with a former made of a flexible material. Superconducting tape conductors are wound around the former, with the superconducting layer in compression on the inside of the wind turns of the wind, to prevent irreversible damage to the superconductor. A layer of solder is on the superconducting tape(s) or solder sheaths are wound between tape conductors in each layer. The one or more solder layers or sheaths are melted to cause the solder to flow within the structure, to bond some or all of the superconducting tape conductors together and form a mechanically strong cable with an enhanced level of electrical connectivity between tapes in the cable.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Divisional U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/398,746, filed Feb. 16, 2012, incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety, which claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationSer. No. 61/444,673, filed Feb. 18, 2011 which is incorporated herein byreference in its entirety.

GOVERNMENT RIGHTS

This invention was made with government support under grant number1P0914 awarded by the National Institute of Standards and Technology(NIST). The government has certain rights in the invention.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention relate to superconducting cablesand, in particular embodiments, to superconducting cables having one ormore superconducting tape conductors wound around a generally flexibleformer.

BACKGROUND

Significant advances have been made in the development and use ofsuperconducting materials over the last decade. High temperaturesuperconducting materials can be used in a variety of applications,including superconducting electrical coils, superconducting cables andflexible, superconducting tapes. Superconducting tapes can include oneor more layers of superconducting material supported on a flat surfaceof a flexible tape substrate.

As superconducting materials technology improves, the usefulapplications for such materials increases. For example, such materialscan be employed to form superconducting power transmission cables,superconducting magnet cables, and other superconducting electricaldevices.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the present invention relate to superconducting cableconfigurations and processes that can provide a superconducting cablehaving a relatively small diameter. Further embodiments are configuredto provide a relatively flexible superconducting cable, to allow thecable to bend to a certain extent without damaging the cable.

According to embodiments of the present invention, a superconductingcable is provided by winding one or more superconducting tapes in one ormore layers around a length of a core or former. A relatively compactsuperconducting cable is configured by employing a former having asufficiently small diameter. In example embodiments of the presentinvention, one or more superconducting tapes are wound around a formerhaving a diameter of less than 10 millimeters (mm). A flexiblesuperconducting cable is configured with a former that is made of arelatively flexible material.

In particular embodiments, one or more superconducting tape conductorsare wound around a former, with the superconducting layer(s) in an axialcompressive state to prevent irreversible damage to the superconductor.For example, one or more (or all) of the superconducting tapeconductor(s) are oriented with their superconducting layers on theinside of the turns of the wind. In this manner, the superconductingtape conductor(s) may be wound with their superconducting layers undercompression.

In further embodiments, the former is also wound with one or moreadditional conductors (or tape conductors) that are not superconducting(but are normal electrical conductors). An electrically insulating layermay be provided over, in between, or around the tape conductors.

In further embodiments, one or more of the tape conductors is coatedwith a layer of solder or other suitable substance that can beselectively melted or flowed and hardened. In yet further embodiments, asuperconducting cable includes one or more solder sheaths wound betweentape conductors in each layer. Alternatively, or in addition, one ormore solder sheaths may be wound around the former, between one or morepairs of adjacent layers in the cable. After cable components have beenassembled, the one or more sheaths and layers of solder are melted tocause the solder to flow within the structure. The solder flows to andbonds some or all of the superconducting tape conductors together, toform a mechanically strong and electrically well-connected cable.

Further embodiments of the present invention relate to methods of makinga superconducting cable. Such methods include winding one or moresuperconducting tape conductors (or arrangements of one or moresuperconducting tape conductors and one or more normal conductors)around a former. Further embodiments include coating one or more of thesuperconducting tape conductors (and/or one or more normal conductors)with solder and melting the solder after assembly of the layers of tapeconductors on the former. Yet further embodiments include winding one ormore solder sheaths, normal conducting and/or insulated resistive wiresor tapes with or between the tape conductors.

Thus, according to embodiments of the present invention superconductingcables can be formed to be relatively compact, yet include appropriateelectrical configurations (e.g., for handling multiple signals orphases), exhibit sufficient mechanical strength and durability forvarious environments of use and, in some examples, have sufficientflexibility to bend.

General embodiments of the present invention relate to a superconductingcable comprising a former; a plurality of superconducting tapeconductors wound in at least one layer around the former in a helicalfashion, each superconducting tape conductor having at least onesuperconducting layer. In particular embodiments, the former has anouter diameter of less than ten millimeters (10 mm). Also in particularembodiments, the former is flexible.

In yet further embodiments, the plurality of superconducting tapeconductors are wound around the former with pretension.

In yet further embodiments, the plurality of superconducting tapeconductors are wound around the former with a gap between the winds ofat least two conductors.

In further embodiments at least one of the plurality of superconductingtape conductors is wound such that a superconducting layer on thesuperconducting tape conductor is located on the inside of the wind,under compression.

In further embodiments, at least one of the plurality of superconductingtape conductors is wound such that a superconducting layer on thesuperconducting tape conductor is located on the outside of the wind,under tension.

In further embodiments, at least one of the plurality of superconductingtape conductors is wound such that a superconducting layer on thesuperconducting tape conductor is located in a central position on thetape conductor, under neither tension nor compression from the wind.

In further embodiments, at least one layer comprises a plurality oflayers of superconducting tape conductors, and where each layer is woundin a different winding direction as an adjacent layer.

In further embodiments, at least one layer comprises a plurality oflayers of superconducting tape conductors, each layer being wound at apitch angle that is different from a pitch angle of tape conductorswound in an adjacent layer.

In further embodiments, the former has a cross-section shape that isoval or rectangular with rounded corners, with the radius of the cornersbeing less than five millimeters (5 mm).

In further embodiments, at least one layer comprises a plurality oflayers of superconducting tape conductors, and where at least oneinsulation layer is provided between adjacent layers of superconductingtape conductors.

In further embodiments, at least one layer comprises a plurality oflayers of superconducting tape conductors, and where at least oneconductor is insulated.

In further embodiments, at least one of the superconducting tapeconductors is coated with a layer of solder that is configured to bemelted after the cable is assembled.

In further embodiments, a solder sheath wound between adjacent winds ofthe at least one superconducting tape conductor, where the solder sheathis configured to be melted after the cable is assembled.

In further embodiments, a solder sheath wound between adjacent layers,where the solder sheath is configured to be melted after the cable isassembled.

In further embodiments, at least one conductor of non-superconducting,conductive material wound between adjacent windings of the at least onesuperconducting tape conductor.

In further embodiments, the at least one conductor ofnon-superconducting, conductive material is covered by a layer of solderconfigured to be melted.

In further embodiments, the at least one layer comprises a plurality oflayers of superconducting tape conductors, and the superconducting cablefurther comprises at least one layer of one or more non-superconductingconductors wound between adjacent layers of the plurality of layers ofsuperconducting tape conductors. For example, a heater wire/tape may bewound around the former, between tapes in at least one layer, or betweenlayers.

In further embodiments, a bundle of superconducting cables includes aplurality of superconducting cables, each having a configurationaccording to any of the above embodiments, where at least onesuperconducting cable has an outer insulating layer and is held in abundle with the other superconducting cables of the plurality ofsuperconducting cables, or where each superconducting cable lacks anouter insulating layer and is held in a bundle with the othersuperconducting cables of the plurality of superconducting cables andthe bundle may comprise a sheath made of a metal, or any otherconductive or non-conductive material covering the bundle of cables.

In further embodiments, a method of making a superconducting cablecomprises: providing a former, and winding a plurality ofsuperconducting tape conductors in at least one layer around the formerin a helical fashion, each superconducting tape conductor having atleast one superconducting layer. In further embodiments of that method,the former has an outer diameter of less than ten millimeters (10 mm).In further embodiments of that method, the former is flexible.

In further embodiments, winding the plurality of superconducting tapeconductors comprises winding the plurality of superconducting tapeconductors around the former with a gap between at least two conductors.

In further embodiments, winding the plurality of superconducting tapeconductors comprises winding the plurality of superconducting tapeconductors around the former with pretension.

In further embodiments, winding the plurality of superconducting tapeconductors comprises winding such that a superconducting layer on eachsuperconducting tape conductor is located on the inside of the wind,under compression.

In further embodiments, at least one of the plurality of superconductingtape conductors is wound such that a superconducting layer on thesuperconducting tape conductor is located on the outside of the wind,under tension.

In further embodiments, winding the plurality of superconducting tapeconductors comprises winding such that a superconducting layer on thesuperconducting tape conductor is located in a central position on thetape conductor, under neither tension nor compression from the wind.

In further embodiments, at least one layer comprises a plurality oflayers of superconducting tape conductors, and winding the plurality ofsuperconducting tape conductors comprises winding each layer in adifferent winding direction as an adjacent layer.

In further embodiments, at least one layer comprises a plurality oflayers of superconducting tape conductors, and winding the plurality ofsuperconducting tape conductors comprises winding each layer at a pitchangle that is different from a pitch angle of tape conductors wound inan adjacent layer.

In further embodiments, at least one layer comprises a plurality oflayers of superconducting tape conductors, and the method furthercomprises providing at least one insulation layer between each adjacentlayer of superconducting tape conductors.

In further embodiments, at least one layer comprises a plurality ofsuperconducting tape conductors, and the method further comprisesinsulating at least one superconducting tape conductor.

In further embodiments, the method further comprises coating at leastone of the superconducting tape conductors with a layer of solder, andmelting the solder after the at least one superconducting tape conductoris wound around the former.

In further embodiments, the method further comprises winding a soldersheath between adjacent winds of the at least one superconducting tapeconductor, and melting the solder sheath after the at least onesuperconducting tape conductor is wound around the former. For example,a method may include winding a heater wire/tape around the former,between tapes in at least one layer, or between layers.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and other features and other advantages of the presentinvention will be more clearly understood from the following detaileddescription taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, inwhich:

FIG. 1 is a partial, cut-away view of a superconducting cable accordingto an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a cross-section view of a multi-conductor or multi-phasesuperconducting cable according to an embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 3 is a cross-section view of a multi-conductor or multi-phasesuperconducting cable according to another embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 4 is a cross-section view of a cable bundle composed of a pluralityof superconducting cables, according to an embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 5 is a cross-section view of a multi-conductor or multi-phase cableaccording to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 6a-c are cross-section views of single and multiple-core cablesaccording to embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a cross-section view of a cable that has a normal conductingmatrix.

FIG. 8 is a cross-section view of a cable that has additional normalconducting layers for overcurrent protection.

FIGS. 9a-d are cross-section views of examples of spliced tape endsaccording to embodiments of the present invention.

FIGS. 10a-c are cross-section views of examples of spliced tape endsaccording to further embodiments of the present invention.

FIGS. 11a-b are examples of cable terminals.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A superconducting cable 10, as shown in FIG. 1, is composed of one ormore superconducting tape conductors 12 that are wound around a former14. Embodiments of the invention relate to cables and processes asdescribed in the article titled: “YBa₂Cu₃O_(7-δ) coated conductorcabling for low ac-loss and high-field magnet applications” by D C vander Laan, (published in Superconductor Science and Technology, in 2009),the article titled: “Compact GdBa₂Cu₃O_(7-δ) coated conductor cables forelectrical power transmission and magnet applications” by D C van derLaan et al. (published in Superconductor Science and Technology, in2011), and the article titled: “High-current dc power transmission inflexible RE-Ba₂Cu₃O_(7-δ) coated conductor cables” by D C van der Laanet al. (published in Superconductor Science and Technology, in 2012)each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

In example embodiments described herein, a relatively small diameterformer 14 (for example, of less than about 10 mm) allows the cable 10 tobe made relatively compact. By winding one or more superconducting tapeconductors 12 with the superconducting layer in an axial compressivestate, irreversible damage to the superconductor may be prevented. Aflexible former 14 allows the cable to be made relatively flexible.

Accordingly, in particular embodiments, the cable 10 is configured to beflexible, from a flexible material and/or a flexible structure, to allowthe cable to bend or flex to an predefined extent without being damaged.In other embodiments, the cable 10 may be formed to be rigid orrelatively rigid, which may be beneficial for certain environments ofuse.

In example embodiments, each tape conductor 12 is a superconducting tapeconductor that includes one or more superconducting layers made of asuperconducting material and/or configuration that providessuperconductivity in the expected operational environment of thesuperconducting cable 10. The superconducting tape conductors 12 may becomposed of any suitable superconducting tape, including, but notlimited to YBa₂Cu₃O_(7-δ) (YBCO) tape conductors, Bi₂Sr₂Ca₂Cu₃O_(x)(Bi-2223) tape conductors, GdBa₂Cu₃O_(7-δ) (GBCO) tape conductors, YBCOor GBCO coated tape conductors manufactured by SuperPower Inc.(Schenectady, N.Y.), or other suitable superconducting tape conductor.Each superconducting tape conductor 12 is wound around the former 14, ina helical fashion.

In further embodiments, the former 14 is also wound with one or morefurther conductors (or tape conductors) that are not superconducting(but are normal electrical conductors), in addition to one or moresuperconducting tape conductors 12. An electrically insulating layer 16may be provided over the tape conductors and may be made of any suitableelectrically insulating material, such as, but not limited toelectrically insulating polymers, rubbers, ceramics, nylons or the like.

The former 14 is composed of any suitable material and, in particularembodiments, is composed of a flexible material that allows the cable 10to be flexible, where such flexible material may include, for example,but not limited to copper or other metals, polymers, rubbers, ceramicsor the like. In example embodiments, the former has a hollow form (suchas a hollow, tube shape). In other embodiments, the former has a solidform (such as a solid, shaft shape). In other embodiments, the formerhas a solid, stranded form (such as a stranded wire or cable). In yetfurther example embodiments, the former may have a solid form along oneor more parts of its length and a hollow form along one or more otherparts of its length.

The former may be configured to have any suitable shape and outerdiameter. For example, the former may have a longitudinal dimension witha cross-sectional shape (taken perpendicular to the longitudinaldimension of the former) that is circular, oval, rectangular or of othersuitable polygons or closed-curves. A cable that has a more rectangularshape compared to round may be favored by some applications, forexample, to simplify winding of certain magnets and other devices.

In example embodiments, the edges or corners of a polygonalcross-sectional shape of a former may be rounded. In one example, theradius of the smallest rounded edge and corner is less than about fivemillimeters (5 mm). The outer diameter of the former may be of anysuitable size and, in particular embodiments, is less than about tenmillimeters (10 mm). In non-limiting example embodiments, the former hasan outer diameter that is in the range of from about 1 mm to about 10 mmand, in particular embodiments, is about 3.2 mm or about 5.5 mm.

The superconducting tape conductor(s) 12 are wound around the former 14in a helical fashion, in one or more layers. In example embodiments,some or all of the superconducting tape conductor(s) 12 are wound withpretension. In other embodiments, the superconducting tape conductor(s)12 are wound without pretension.

In example embodiments, one or more (or all) of the superconducting tapeconductor(s) 12 wound around the former 14 are oriented with theirsuperconducting layers on the inside of the turns of the wind. In thismanner, the superconducting tape conductor(s) 12 may be wound with theirsuperconducting layers under compression. In other embodiments, one ormore (or all) of the superconducting tape conductor(s) 12 wound aroundthe former 14 are oriented with their superconducting layers on theoutside of the turns of the wind. In this manner, the superconductingtape conductor(s) 12 may be wound with their superconducting layersunder tension. In yet other embodiments, one or more (or all) of thesuperconducting tape conductors 12 wound around the former 14 have theirsuperconducting layers located in a central layer of the tapes, suchthat the superconducting layers are generally neutral with regard tocompressive or tensile states. In yet further embodiments, the former 14may be wound with multiple superconducting tape conductors 12 in acombination of any two or all three of the compression, tension and/orneutral orientations described above.

One or more superconducting tape conductors 12 may be included in eachlayer of tape conductors wound around the former 14. For example, eachlayer may include one, two, three or more separate superconducting tapeconductors 12 ₁, 12 ₂, 12 _(n) wound, adjacent each other, on the former14. Each superconducting tape conductor 12 ₁, 12 ₂, 12 _(n) in a layermay be wound in close proximity to (or in contact with) an adjacentsuperconducting tape conductor 12 ₁, 12 ₂, 12 _(n) in the same layer.Alternatively, each superconducting tape conductor 12 ₁, 12 ₂, 12 _(n)in a layer may be spaced apart from an adjacent superconducting tapeconductor 12 ₁, 12 ₂, 12 _(n) in the same layer by a gap. In yetalternative embodiments, one or more of the superconducting tapeconductors 12 ₁, 12 ₂, 12 _(n) in a given layer are wound in closeproximity to (or in contact with) an adjacent superconducting tapeconductor 12 ₁, 12 ₂, 12 _(n) in the same layer, while one or more othersuperconducting tape conductors 12 ₁, 12 ₂, 12 _(n) in the same layerare spaced apart from an adjacent superconducting tape conductor 12 ₁,12 ₂, 12 _(n) in the same layer by a gap. A gap between tapes in eachlayer can help to increase the flexibility of the cable and allow thecable to have a smaller bending radius, if desired.

In further embodiments, some or all of the layers of tape conductors onthe former 14 may be separated from an adjacent layer by a gap. A gapbetween layers can help to increase the flexibility of the cable andallow the cable to have a smaller bending radius, if desired.

Furthermore, the one or more superconducting tape conductors 12 in eachlayer on the former 14 may be wound with a constant pitch anglethroughout the layer. Alternatively, the one or more superconductingtape conductors 12 in each layer may be wound with a varying pitch anglethrough the layer. Furthermore, superconducting tape conductor 12 ₁ maybe wound at a pitch that is the same or, alternatively, that variesrelative to the pitch of the winding of tape conductor 12 ₂.Alternatively, the superconducting tape conductors 12 in plural layerson the former 14 may be wound with a constant pitch angle through eachlayer and/or the same pitch angle in plural layers. Alternatively, thesuperconducting tape conductors 12 in plural layers on the former 14 maybe wound with one or more different pitch angles in each layer. In anexample embodiment, the superconducting tape conductors 12 are wound inplural layers on the former 14, with the pitch angle of each layer beingconstant through the layer, but different from the pitch angle of animmediately adjacent layer.

Furthermore, the one or more superconducting tape conductors 12 in eachlayer are wound in the same direction around the former 14. However, infurther embodiments, any two superconducting tape conductors 12 in agiven layer may be wound in opposed directions. In yet furtherembodiments, the superconducting tape conductors 12 in one layer arewound in a common direction throughout that layer, while the tapeconductors in an immediately adjacent layer are wound in the oppositedirection. According, one or more superconducting tape conductors 12 ineach layer of the cable is wound at the same, or different pitch angles,and each layer is wound at the same or opposing direction as itspreceding layer.

Each of the superconducting tape conductors 12 may be covered with aninsulating material, such as, but not limited to electrically insulatingpolymers, rubbers, ceramics, nylons or the like. In further embodiments,some, but not all of the superconducting tape conductors 12 are coveredwith the insulating material. In yet further embodiments, none of thesuperconducting tape conductors are covered with an insulating material.In yet further embodiments, some or all of the superconducting tapeconductors are covered with an electrically conductive material, suchas, but not limited to an electrically conductive metal, ceramic, or thelike.

Thus, according to embodiments described above, a superconducting cablecomprises a plurality of superconducting tape conductors, each havingone or more superconducting layers, where the superconducting tapeconductors are wound in a helical fashion in one or more layers around aformer having an outer diameter of less than 10 mm.

In further embodiments, the superconducting cable may be configured as amulti-conductor superconducting cable for conducting two or moreisolated currents of the same electrical phase on different conductors,or a multi-phase superconducting cable for conducting two or moredifferent electrical phases. In such embodiments, multiple layers ofsuperconducting tape conductors 12 are wound on a former 14, asdescribed above, where each electrical phase is associated with arespective set of one or more of the layers.

For example, FIGS. 2 and 3 show a two-section and a three-sectionsuperconducting cable 100, 200, respectively, according to embodimentsof the present invention. In one example, the two-section andthree-section superconducting cables are connected (or configured to beconnected) as a two-phase and a three-phase superconducting cable,respectively. In the two-phase and three-phase examples, each cable 100,200 includes one or more of the layers of superconducting tapeconductors 112 (corresponding to the layer of superconducting tapeconductors 12 discussed above), associated with (connected or arrangedto be connected to conduct) a first electrical phase, but not a secondor third electrical phase. Another one or more further layers of thesuperconducting tape conductor 112′ (also corresponding to the layer ofsuperconducting tape conductors 12 discussed above) are associated with(connected or arranged to be connected to conduct) the second electricalphase, but not the first phase.

In another example, the two-section and a three-section superconductingcables 100, 200 of FIGS. 2 and 3 are connected or arranged to beconnected to conduct the same electrical phase, but each driven by itsown respective current supply to provide a more homogeneous currentdistribution in the cable at high ramp rates. In the same-phase example,one or more of the layers of superconducting tape conductors 112(corresponding to the layer of superconducting tape conductors 12discussed above), associated with (conductively connected or arranged tobe conductively connected to) a first electrical section, but not asecond or third electrical section. In addition, another one or morefurther layers of the superconducting tape conductor 112′ (alsocorresponding to the layer of superconducting tape conductors 12discussed above) are associated with (conductively connected or arrangedto be conductively connected to) the second electrical section, but notthe first section.

In the three-phase example embodiment of FIG. 3, yet another one or morefurther layers of the superconducting tape conductor 112″ (alsocorresponding to the layer of superconducting tape conductors 12discussed above) are associated with (connected or arranged to beconnected to conduct) the third electrical phase, but not the first orsecond electrical phase. In such embodiments, each one or more layersassociated with a given electrical phase may be electrically insulatedfrom each one or more layers associated with the other electricalphase(s) by one or more layers of an insulating material 113, asdescribed above. For example, one or more layers of electricalinsulating material may be wound or otherwise arranged between layers ofsuperconducting tape conductors 112, 112′ and 112″ or between each phase(for example, between a group of one or more layers associated with onephase and a group of one or more layers associated with another phase).

In the three-section, same-phase example embodiment of FIG. 3, yetanother one or more further layers of the superconducting tape conductor112″ (also corresponding to the layer of superconducting tape conductors12 discussed above) are associated with (conductively connected orarranged to be conductively connected to) the third electrical section,but not the first or second electrical section. In such embodiments,each one or more layers associated with a given electrical section maybe electrically insulated from each one or more layers associated withthe other electrical section(s) by one or more layers of an insulatingmaterial 113, as described above. For example, one or more layers ofelectrical insulating material may be wound or otherwise arrangedbetween layers of superconducting tape conductors 112, 112′ and 112″ orbetween each section (for example, between a group of one or more layersassociated with one section and a group of one or more layers associatedwith another section). The different sections may be of the sameelectrical phase, but each driven by its own respective current supplyto provide a more homogeneous current distribution in the cable at highramp rates. In further embodiments, the number of sections could exceedthree. Also, any of the multi-section (multi-phase or same-phase)embodiments may include one or more layers of outer insulating material16.

In further embodiments as shown in FIG. 4, two or more single-formercables 10, 100 or 200 as described above (including two or more singlephase configurations, two or more multi-phase configurations or acombination of one or more single and one or more multi-phaseconfigurations) are bundled together in a multi-former cable 300. Insuch embodiments, a layer of insulating material 302 as described abovemay be formed around a plurality of single-former cables 10, 100, 200configured as described above.

In further embodiments, one or more of the tape conductors in any of theexample embodiments described herein is coated with a layer of solder orother suitable substance that can be selectively melted or flowed andhardened. After cable components as described above have been assembled,the layer of solder is melted to cause the solder to flow within thestructure. The solder flows to and bonds some or all of thesuperconducting tape conductors together, to form a rigid, mechanicallystrong cable, which can be beneficial for applications in whichrelatively large stresses act on the cable. In cases of an electricallyconductive solder, the solder enhances the electrical connectivitybetween individual tapes.

In yet further embodiments, a cable as described in any of the exampleembodiments described herein further includes one or more solder sheathsthat is wound between tape conductors in each layer. Alternatively, orin addition, one or more solder sheaths may be wound about the former14, between one or more pairs of adjacent layers in the cable. Aftercable components as described above have been assembled, the one or moresheaths of solder are melted to cause the solder to flow within thestructure. The solder flows to and bonds some or all of thesuperconducting tape conductors together, to form a rigid, mechanicallystrong cable, which can be beneficial for applications in whichrelatively large stresses act on the cable. In the case of electricallyconductive solder, the solder enhances the electrical connectivitybetween individual tapes.

In further embodiments, a cable according to any of the exampleembodiments described herein includes at least one conductor ofnon-superconducting, normal electrical conducting material that is woundin one or more of the layers of superconducting tape conductors. Invarious embodiments, the shape of the conductor can vary. For example,at least one conductor of normal conducting material may be woundbetween two adjacent superconducting tape conductors in at least onelayer. Alternatively, or in addition, at least one layer of normalconducting conductors is wound between at least one pair of adjacentlayers of superconducting tape conductors. Alternatively, or inaddition, at least one layer of normal conducting material is wound ontop of the outer superconducting tape layer of the cable, or on theformer. The normal conducting layers can form electrical connectionsbetween individual superconducting tape conductors, allowing for currentsharing for example, in the event of defects or other obstructions tothe current. Alternatively, or in addition, the normal conducting layerscan act as a current shunt, in the event that the current in the cableexceeds a predefined maximum current that can be carried by thesuperconducting films.

In further embodiments, a cable according to any of the exampleembodiments described herein includes an outer sheath around theabove-described components. The outer sheath may be made of any suitablematerial, including, but not limited to a metal material. The outersheath can provide mechanical reinforcement and added strength to thecable.

In further embodiments, a cable according to any of the exampleembodiments described herein includes one or more normal conductingcables with one or more of the superconducting cables as describedabove, where all of the cables are bundled and surrounded by a sheath asdescribed above. The normal conducting cables may be coupled to act as acurrent shunt, and the sheath can provide external mechanicalreinforcement to the cable, as described above.

In further embodiments, a cable according to any of the exampleembodiments described herein includes one or more insulated resistivewires that are wound in parallel to one, or more of the superconductingtape conductors or normal conductors. In particular embodiments, thesewires are used as heating wires that produce heat when conductingcurrent, to quickly drive the cable into its non-superconducting, normalin case of a quench.

Further embodiments of the present invention relate to methods of makinga superconducting cable as described above. Such methods include windingone or more superconducting tape conductors (or arrangements of one ormore superconducting tape conductors and one or more normal conductors)around a former, as described above and shown in the drawings. Furtherembodiments of such methods include coating one or more of thesuperconducting tape conductors (and/or one or more normal conductors)with solder and melting the solder after assembly of the layers of tapeconductors on the former, as described above. Yet further embodiments ofsuch methods include winding one or more solder sheaths, normalconductor layers and/or insulated resistive wires with or between thetape conductors, as described above.

Thus, in example embodiments described herein, a relatively smalldiameter former allows the cable to be made relatively compact. Bywinding one or more superconducting tape conductors in a compressionstate, irreversible damage to the superconductor can be prevented. Aflexible former allows the cable to be made relatively flexible.Non-limiting example cables and processes for making compactsuperconducting transmission cables, cables for degaussing, and magnetcables are described below.

EXAMPLE 1 2-Phase Cable (For DC Transmission)

An example process for making a two-phase cable (FIG. 2), for example,for dc transmission, is as follows.

A flexible solid or hollow former 14 that has a small outer diameter of1-10 mm is obtained as a core. Optionally, an insulating layer is woundaround the former.

Then, multiple superconducting tapes in one or more layers 112 arehelically wound around the former 14 with the superconducting layer 112on the inside (superconductor under compression). If more than one layeris used, each layer could be wound in opposite direction from itsneighbor. This stack of layers is for the first electrical phase of thecable.

Each superconducting tape could be individually insulated to preventcurrent sharing with its neighbors, or it could be coated with aresistive layer to adjust the resistance between tapes and thus adjustthe level of current sharing.

Then, an insulating layer 113 is wound around the stack ofsuperconductors that forms the first electrical phase.

Then, a second stack of superconducting tapes 112′ is helically wound ontop of the insulating layer, forming the second electrical phase. Thehigher laying tapes could have their superconducting layer on theoutside (under tension) as long as the winding radius and lay angle arelarge enough to not cause damage to the superconductor.

Then, an insulating layer 113′ is wound around the stack ofsuperconductors that form the second phase.

Then, a final stack of superconducting tapes that will form the neutralis helically wound on top of the top insulating layer.

Then, a final insulating layer is wound on the stack of superconductorsthat form the neutral.

Then the cable is placed in a flexible double-walled cryostat thatcontains a vacuum space with super insulation.

Cooling can be provided by running a cryogenic liquid or gas througheither the hollow former (if present), or around the cable in thecryostat, or both.

EXAMPLE 2 3-Phase Cable (For AC Transmission Shown in FIG. 3)

An example process for making a three-phase cable, for example, for actransmission, is as follows.

The process of Example 1 is carried out up to and including helicalwinding of the second stack of superconducting tapes 112′ on top of theinsulating layer, to form the second electrical phase and the secondinsulating layer.

Then, a third stack of superconducting tapes 112′ is helically wound onthe insulating layer that was wound around the stack of tapes thatformed the second electrical phase in the 2-phase cable. This stack nowforms the third electrical phase.

Then, an insulating layer 16 is wound around the stack ofsuperconductors that forms the third phase.

Then, a final stack of superconducting tapes that will form the neutralis helically wound on top of the top insulating layer.

Then, a final insulating layer is wound on the stack of superconductorsthat form the neutral.

Then the cable is placed in a flexible double-walled cryostat thatcontains a vacuum space with super insulation.

Cooling can be provided by connecting the former to a conduit forrunning a cryogenic liquid or gas through either the hollow former (ifpresent), or around the cable in the cryostat, or both.

EXAMPLE 3 Multi-Phase Cable (For AC Transmission)

Another example process for making a multi-phase cable, for example, forac transmission, is described with reference to FIG. 5, as follows.

For each phase, a plurality of superconducting tapes 512 are helicallywound with the superconducting layer on the inside (under compression)in one or multiple layers around a round hollow or solid former 514 thathas a small diameter of 1-10 mm. If more than one layer is used, eachlayer could be wound in opposite direction from it neighbor layer.

Each superconducting tape 512 could be individually insulated to preventcurrent sharing with its neighbors, or it could be coated with aresistive layer to adjust the resistance between tapes and thus adjustthe level of current sharing.

One or more of the higher laying tapes 512 could have their YBCO layeron the outside (under tension) as long as the winding radius and layangle are high enough to not cause damage to the superconductor.

In further embodiments, insulation 513 is wound around the former 514before the superconducting layers are wound.

After the superconducting tapes 512 are wound, insulation 513 is woundaround the stack of superconducting tapes.

Then, a three phase cable is formed by bundling three of these one-phasecores together as shown in FIG. 5.

Then, a shielding layer is formed by winding superconducting tapesaround the bundle of three phases, or each phase could have its ownneutral that is formed by a stack of superconducting tapes that can bewound on the outside of the cable that forms each phase (not shown).

Then, the shield layer is insulated on the outside (not shown).

Then, the cable is placed in a flexible double-walled cryostat thatcontains a vacuum space with super insulation (not shown).

Cooling is provided by running a cryogenic liquid or gas through eitherthe hollow former (if present), or around the cable in the cryostat, orboth.

EXAMPLE 4 Multi-Core, Rapid-Ramp Cable (For Fast-Ramping Magnets andPower Transmission Cables)

An example process for making a multi-core, fast ramping cable, forexample, for fast-ramping magnets and power transmission cables, isdescribed with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, as follows. Fast rampingcould potentially cause the current distribution in cables that consistof many layers to become inhomogeneous. One possible method to force amore even current distribution during ramping is to divide the cableinto multiple sections of n layers, which are insulated from each other.Each section will contain the same electrical phase, but will each beconnected to and driven by its own respective current source. Eachcurrent source can force the correct amount of current in each section,making the current distribution in the cable more even than when onlyone current source is used. Accordingly, a co-axial 2, 3, or n-phasecable as in FIGS. 2 and 3, may be constructed, but connected forcontaining the same phase.

EXAMPLE 5 Multi-Core, Low-Loss Cable (For AC Transmission)

An example process for making a multi-core, low-loss cable, for example,for ac transmission, is described with reference to FIGS. 6a-c , asfollows.

A flexible solid or hollow former 614 that has a small outer diameter of1-10 mm is obtained as a core. Optionally, an insulating layer may bewound around the former (not shown).

Multiple superconducting tapes in one or more layers 612 are helicallywound around the former with the superconducting layer on the inside(superconductor under compression). A small twist pitch is used toreduce the ac losses. The number of layers may be limited to prevent aninhomogeneous current distribution. If more than one layer is used, eachlayer could be wound in opposite direction from it neighbor.

The higher laying tapes could be wound with their YBCO layer on theoutside (under tension) as long as the winding radius and lay angle arehigh enough to not cause damage to the superconductor.

Each superconducting tape could be individually insulated to preventcurrent sharing with its neighbors, or it could be coated with aresistive layer to adjust the resistance between tapes and thus adjustthe level of current sharing.

Optionally, a layer of insulation 613 is wound around the stack ofsuperconductors.

Then, a number of these single-phase cores 600 are bundled together withfull transposition. This will increase the number of tapes per phase, orin the magnet cable, while keeping the amount of layers per corelimited. A multi-phase cable for ac transmission is formed by bundlingseveral cores of all phases together.

Then, in the case of a transmission cable, a neutral layer is formed byhelically winding a stack of tapes around the bundles (not shown).

Then, an outer insulation layer is wound around the stack of tapes thatforms the neutral layer (not shown).

Then, in the case of a transmission cable, the cable will be placed in aflexible double-walled cryostat that contains a vacuum space with superinsulation.

Also, in the case of a transmission cable, cooling is provided byrunning a cryogenic liquid or gas through either the hollow former (ifpresent), or around the cable in the cryostat, or both.

In the drawings, FIG. 6a shows an example of a single core withsuperconducting tapes, FIG. 6b shows an example of plural single-corecables that are bundled together to form a single or multi-phase cableconfiguration 650, and FIG. 6c shows a plurality (three) bundles ofsingle-core cables forming a multi-phase (three-phase) cable 660. In atransmission cable, each phase can be formed by its own bundle ofsame-phase cables, while a 3-phase cable is formed by bundling three ofthese multi-filament single-phase cables together.

EXAMPLE 6 Multi-Core, Multi-Phase Per Core Cable

A further embodiment may be configured similar to Example 5, above, butwith multiple insulated phases on each core, as described in examples 1and 2. In case of a magnet cable, or fast ramping transmission cable,these phases could be the same, but each section may be connected to anddriven by its own respective current source as described in example 4.

EXAMPLE 7 Cable With Improved Electrical Connection Between Tapes

It may be beneficial to have a relatively large amount of normalconducting material (for instance copper) in parallel with thesuperconducting tapes in a transmission line or magnet cable to providethe current with an optional shunt path in case of a fault. A currentshunt path will also allow the current under normal operating conditionsto bypass a damaged section in one of the tapes, or a section whereconductors are spliced together. The ceramic layer that is in betweenthe metal substrate and the superconductor in YBCO coated conductors insome cases is resistive and won't allow for current to pass. A normalconducting current path that bypasses the resistive buffer layer andsurrounds part or all of the tape can be present to electrically connectthe tapes together or to a normal conducting shunt layer. In oneembodiment, this can be done by copper plating a thin layer of copper toeach individual tape. However, such copper plating can be expensive, orinsufficient.

To improve the electrical connection between the individual tapes of acable, a normal conducting matrix in which the tapes are embedded can beconstructed as shown in FIG. 7 and described as follows.

One or more superconducting tapes 712 (corresponding to the layer(s) ofsuperconducting tape conductors 12) are wound in multiple layers on aformer 714 as described in the above examples. In addition, a relativelythin (up to say 20 micron) copper layer (not shown) may be electroplatedon and around some or each of the tapes. This layer makes it easier tosolder connections to the conductor.

Then, a second layer (not shown) of further electrically conductivematerial is bonded to and around the superconducting tape 712 by eitherplating or other suitable methods. The second layer could have a higherelectrical resistance than the copper layer and allows for a level ofadjustability of the electrical coupling between the superconductinglayer of the tapes and the normal conducting matrix between the tapes.Current could transfer to the normal conducting matrix in case of afault, but the higher resistance of the layer will reduce the couplinglosses during normal operation.

In the above embodiment, a strip of normal conducting material (copper)718 is wound in between the superconducting tapes 712 in each individuallayer. The strips 718 have a comparable thickness to that of thesuperconducting tapes 712.

A layer 716 of normal conducting material is wound between each layer ofsuperconducting tapes. The thickness of the layer 716 is adjustable andwill depend on the application.

The winding direction of the superconducting tapes 712 of one or eachlayer could be opposite to that of one or both neighboringsuperconducting layers.

Optionally, some of the tapes 712 in some of the layers could bepositioned with the superconducting layer facing outward, to enhance thecoupling between superconducting tapes.

The current of each superconducting tape can transfer into the normallayer that is next to the superconducting layer. The current could flowfrom one superconducting layer to the next through the normal conductingstrips that are wound between the superconducting tapes in eachsuperconducting layer. This configuration, where a normal conductingmatrix is formed in which the superconducting tapes are embedded, allowsa current to transfer from one tape to another in case of a localdefect, or from the superconducting layers into a normal conductingshunt (either the matrix itself, or some other normal conductingmaterial next to the superconducting layer) in case of a fault.

EXAMPLE 8 Cable With Improved Overcurrent Protection

In some case, such as transmission lines that are incorporated in theelectric power grid, the cable is configured to be able to withstandrelatively large overcurrents for a small period of time. A shuntingcross-section and additional normal conducting material (such as, butnot limited to copper) can be added beside the superconducting layers ofany of the above embodiments.

For example, with reference to FIG. 8, a cable configured according toany of the examples described above may be used, but with one or morenormally conducting shunt layers 815, 815′ and a normal electricallyconducting former 814 to provide an additional shunt. The former 814need not be insulated. In addition, superconducting layers 816, 816′ mayinclude superconducting tapes 812 embedded in a normal matrix 813 toform a large degree of electrical coupling between each tape and theshunt.

When more phases are present in the cable, or when the former doesn'tprovide with enough shunt material, additional normal conducting layersare wound on top of the superconducting layers. Again a normal matrix ispreferred to provide good electrical coupling between the tapes and theshunt layer.

In particular embodiments, each phase of the cable has an additionalshunt layer on the outside of the superconducting phase. The radius onwhich the superconducting tapes are wound can remain relatively small byplacing the shunt layer on the outside of the cable. This reduces theamount of superconductor needed and allows for small twist pitches ofthe superconducting tapes.

This approach can be applied to power transmission cables that have asingle core on which all phases are wound, or to power transmissioncables where each phase is wound around an individual core and where thecables of each phase are bundled together to form the final multi-phasecable.

EXAMPLE 9 Cable With Improved Electrical and Mechanical Coupling BetweenTapes

Relatively large forces may act on the individual tapes in the cablewhen the cable is used in a magnet. In such environments, it can bebeneficial to provide mechanical coupling between the individual tapesof the cable. Such mechanical coupling can be provided by bonding thetapes in each layer together with solder. Such a bonding will alsoenhance the electrical connection between individual conductors in thecable. An example of a process for improving mechanical bonding is asfollows.

In particular, superconducting tapes are wound in multiple layers on aformer as described in the above examples.

However, in this example, each superconducting tape and/or normalconducting strip that forms the optional matrix is coated with a thinlayer of solder before the cable is wound. Alternatively or in addition,a thin solder foil is wound in between the layers of superconductingtapes, or normal conducting layers that form the optional matrix.

Once the cable is assembled and wound into a system, as for instance amagnet, the complete system is heated in a furnace to melt the solder.After cool-down the solder bonds all of the tapes in each layer and allof the layers together, forming an even better electrical connection anda strong mechanical bond.

In addition, the cable components could be cast in epoxy that will bondthe individual cables together. The epoxy may be selected such thatcuring of the epoxy would occur at a temperature below the meltingtemperature of the solder in the cable.

EXAMPLE 10 Cable With Improved Flexibility

For greater flexibility and smaller bending radii, the processes ofmaking the cable may include any of the processes as described above,but with the following modifications.

In particular, the process may further include introducing a small gapbetween the superconducting tapes in each layer during winding. The sizeof the gap depends on the minimum bend radius that the cable willexperience when wound into an application, the tape width and the layangle. The gap closes on the inside of the cable and widens on theoutside of the cable when the cable is bent into the form of theapplication. The gap on the inside prevents the superconducting tapesfrom being pushed into each other, which may cause damage.

Since small bending diameters are often required in magnets where theforces on the cable and its conductors can be large, reinforcement ofthe cable can be provided by the solder procedure discussed above. Thesolder is melted after the cable is bent in its final shape. The solderwill partly or completely fill the remaining gaps between the tapes ineach layer, providing an electrical and mechanical support to each ofthe superconducting tapes.

EXAMPLE 11 Cable With Spliced Superconducting Tapes

YBCO coated conductors are typically produced in lengths up to about 1km. Accordingly, superconducting tapes are spliced together when used inlonger cables. Where the joint between these conductors is notsuperconducting, current typically flows though a low-resistive materialfrom one superconductor to the other. Certain ultra-compact cableembodiment of the present invention allows such a current transferthrough for instance the normal conducting matrix that surrounds thesuperconducting tapes. Accordingly splices need not overlap and thusneed not increase the thickness of the superconducting layer locally.Coated conductor splices between conductors can be made using thefollowing example approaches.

Two coated conductors are jointed at the ends by soldering or weldingthe substrates together. In particular embodiments, the contacting endsof the conductors are tapered to increase the contact area, or aconducive wedge member could be applied between ends of the conductorsto do the same. This can result in a total conductor that has an eventhickness along its length (see FIG. 9a-d ).

A conductive layer (such as a copper layer) could be plated onto theconductors before or after the connection is made. As shown in FIG. 9c ,according to one example embodiment, a superconducting layer can becovered by a metal layer, such as silver or silver alloy. In an exampleembodiment, the use of silver allows soldering to occur on the silvercovering without damaging the superconducting cable.

When the variation in conductor thickness is allowed (for instance in atransmission line), the coated conductors could be soldered togetherwhile overlapping. Since current transfer between the tapes will occurthrough the normal conducting matrix, the conductors could be solderedin such a way that the YBCO layers are not facing each other. This willkeep the orientation of the YBCO on both sides of the splice the same(see FIG. 10a-c ).

An overlapping splice can be formed by soldering the end of one of thetapes on top of the other tape, but not soldering the entire splice.This will keep the splice flexible when cabled. The splice can be fullysoldered by melting additional solder that was located in the splice,after the cable is assembled.

The electrical and mechanical connection between superconductors can beimproved by applying solder between the conductors as discussed above,after the spliced conductors are wound into a cable.

EXAMPLE 12 Cable With Reinforcement

The forces that act on the cable in some magnet applications can besufficiently large that reinforcement of the cable can be beneficial.For example, a stainless steel outer jacket may be provided forreinforcement. Various example processes can be used to reinforce YBCOcoated conductor cables.

For example, in an example embodiment, a single core superconductingcable as described above is inserted in a metal jacket, where the jacketconsists of two half shells that are welded together after the cable isinserted. The jacket could have an outer cross-section of any suitableshape (including, but not limited to a rectangular, round or oval outercross-section), but has an inner cross-section that matches the shape ofthe cable. Cooling of the cable is done either by using a hollow formerand passing cooling fluid through a hollow former, or by passing coolingfluid between the cable and the jacket.

In further embodiments, multiple single-core superconducting cables arebundled. In such embodiments, normal conducting strands can be includedto fill the voids and to provide a shunt and with hollow tubes (theformer and/or outer jacket) that are used for cooling.

EXAMPLE 13 Cable Terminals

A cable as described herein can include many superconducting tapes.These tapes can be connected to a normal conducting terminal throughwhich the current can be introduced. Such terminals can be constructedas shown in FIG. 11a and 11b and as described below.

Each terminal is constructed from a cylindrical end piece 1010 of normalconducting material (such as, but not limited to copper). The former onwhich superconducting tapes are wound (as described in any of the aboveembodiments) is fed through an opening 1011 in the center of theterminal end piece 1010.

The end 1014 of the terminal end piece facing the cable is machined intoa conical end piece on which the tapes are spread out and soldered, whena former is inserted into the opening 1011, as shown in FIG. 11 b.

The opposite end of the terminal end piece 1010 has through holes 1015,or bolt holes onto which external cables can be bolted.

Two additional, optional shells can be soldered on the conical endpiece, covering the ends of the tapes (not shown).

EXAMPLE 14 Single-Phase Cable Configuration

As a representative, non-limiting example, a cable may be configured inany suitable length, such as, but not limited to 0.5 m in length, andincludes up to twenty-four superconducting tape conductors in up toeight layers around a flexible, copper former having a 5.5 mm outerdiameter. For example, in a twenty-four tape, eight layer embodiment,each layer includes three superconducting tape conductors. Thesuperconducting tape conductors are wound with their superconductinglayers facing inward, such that they were under compressive strain.

A cable that has twenty-four superconductor tape conductors may be ableto carry as much as 2800 A at 76 K, which can be more than 90% of thecurrent that all individual conductors could carry combined, before theywere wound into the cable.

Without significant gaps between tape conductors, a cable having twelvesuperconducting tape conductors wound in three layers around aninsulated, flexible, copper former of 5.5 mm diameter, may be able to bebent in a 24 cm diameter bend without degradation in current carryingcapacity. However, gaps may be formed between neighboringsuperconducting tape conductors, for example, to allow greater bending(to diameters well below 24 cm), without significant damage to thecable.

Where such example embodiments are not inconsistent with each other,various example embodiments described above (or portions thereof) may beused together and interchangeably in yet further embodiments of thepresent invention.

EXAMPLE 15 Two-Phase Cable Configuration

A cable that can apply to certain Air Force applications includes twoelectrical phases that are wound on one former, on top of each other,with a layer of insulation in between the phases. In one example, acable has 79 tapes in 17 layers on a 5.5 mm diameter former and cancarry a current of up to 7561 A in liquid nitrogen, when the current inboth phases runs in the same direction.

EXAMPLE 16 Magnet Cable Configuration

A further example of a high performing cable includes 40 conductors on a4 mm diameter former in 12 layers. The cable is wound into a 1.5 turnloop of outer diameter 12 cm (10.5 cm inner diameter). The cable cancarry up to 4100 A at 4.2 K in a background field of 20 T orientedperpendicular to the cable.

EXAMPLE 17 Magnet Cable Quench Protection

In case that a superconducting magnet experiences a fault that drivesthe superconducting cable normal locally, all energy that is stored inthe magnet will be dissipated in a small normal zone. To prevent burnoutduring a magnet quench, the magnet cable must be driven normal over itsentire length in a relative short time to distribute the dissipativeenergy over the entire magnet. A method that allows for such a rapidtransition from superconducting to normal state of a cable includesco-winding one or more heater wires with the superconducting tapes,and/or incorporate a heater wire within the former. The heater wire isenergized using an external power source as soon as a magnet quench isdetected.

Embodiments disclosed herein are to be considered in all respects asillustrative and not restrictive of the invention. The scope of theinvention is indicated by the appended claims, rather than the foregoingdescription. All changes that come within the meaning and range ofequivalency of the claims are therefore intended to be embraced therein.

What is claimed is:
 1. A superconducting cable comprising: a former; aplurality of superconducting tape conductors wound in a plurality oflayers around the former in a helical fashion, each superconducting tapeconductor having at least one superconducting layer, wherein each layerof superconducting tape conductors is arranged either over or under atleast one other layer in the plurality of layers in a radial direction;at least one conductor of non-superconducting, conductive materialwound: (a) between adjacent windings of at least one of thesuperconducting tape conductors in at least one layer of thesuperconducting tape conductors, or (b) between two of the layers ofsuperconducting tape conductors, where the at least one layer comprisesa plurality of layers of superconducting tape conductors; and solderthat is configured to be melted after the cable is assembled, the soldercomprising (a) a layer of solder coated on at least one of thesuperconducting tape conductors such that the at least onesuperconducting tape conductor with the layer of solder is wound aroundthe former, (b) a solder material wound between adjacent winds of thesuperconducting tape conductors, (c) a solder material arranged betweenat least two of the layers where the at least one layer comprises aplurality of layers, or (d) a layer of solder coated on the at least oneconductor of non-superconducting, conductive material.
 2. Thesuperconducting cable of claim 1, where the former has an outer diameterof less than ten millimeters (10 mm).
 3. The superconducting cable ofclaim 1, where the former is flexible.
 4. The superconducting cable ofclaim 1, where the plurality of superconducting tape conductors arewound around the former with a gap between winds of at least two of thesuperconducting tape conductors.
 5. The superconducting cable of claim1, further comprising at least one electrically insulated, resistiveheating wire wound around the former, for providing a quenching heatsource.
 6. The superconducting cable of claim 1, where the soldercomprises the layer of solder coated on at least one of thesuperconducting tape conductors.
 7. The superconducting cable of claim1, where the solder comprises the solder material wound between adjacentwinds of the superconducting tape conductors.
 8. The superconductingcable of claim 1, where the solder comprises the solder materialarranged between at least two of the layers of the superconducting tapeconductors.
 9. The superconducting cable of claim 1, where the soldercomprises the layer of solder coated on the at least one conductor ofnon-superconducting, conductive material.
 10. The superconducting cableof claim 1, where each layer of the superconducting tape conductors iswound in a different winding direction as an adjacent layer of thesuperconducting tape conductors.
 11. The superconducting cable of claim1, where each layer of the superconducting tape conductors is wound at apitch angle that is different from a pitch angle of tape conductorswound in an adjacent layer.
 12. The superconducting cable of claim 1,where the former has a cross-section shape that is oval or rectangularwith rounded corners, with the radius of the corners being less thanfive millimeters (5 mm).
 13. The superconducting cable of claim 1, whereat least one insulation layer is provided between adjacent layers ofsuperconducting tape conductors.
 14. The superconducting cable of claim1, where at least one of superconducting tape conductors is insulated.15. A superconducting cable comprising: a former; a plurality ofsuperconducting tape conductors wound in at least one layer around theformer, each superconducting tape conductor having at least onesuperconducting layer; at least one conductor of non-superconducting,conductive material wound: (a) between adjacent windings of at least oneof the superconducting tape conductors in at least one layer of thesuperconducting tape conductors, or (b) between two of the layers ofsuperconducting tape conductors where the at least one layer comprises aplurality of layers of superconducting tape conductors; and a layer ofsolder coated on the at least one conductor of non-superconducting,conductive material, the layer of solder configured to be melted afterthe cable is assembled.
 16. The superconducting cable of claim 15,further comprising at least one electrically insulated, resistiveheating wire wound around the former, for providing a quenching heatsource.
 17. The superconducting cable of claim 15, where each layer ofthe superconducting tape conductors is wound in a different windingdirection as an adjacent layer of the superconducting tape conductors.18. The superconducting cable of claim 15, where each layer of thesuperconducting tape conductors is wound at a pitch angle that isdifferent from a pitch angle of tape conductors wound in an adjacentlayer.
 19. A method of making a superconducting cable comprising:providing a former; winding a plurality of superconducting tapeconductors in a plurality of layers around the former in a helicalfashion, each superconducting tape conductor having at least onesuperconducting layer, wherein each layer of superconducting tapeconductors is arranged either over or under at least one other layer inthe plurality of layers in a radial direction; winding at least oneconductor of non-superconducting, conductive material either: (a)between adjacent windings of at least one of the superconducting tapeconductors in at least one layer of the superconducting tape conductors,or (b) between two of the layers of superconducting tape conductorswhere the at least one layer comprises a plurality of layers ofsuperconducting tape conductors; and providing solder that is configuredto be melted after the cable is assembled, wherein providing the soldercomprises (a) coating a layer of solder on at least one of thesuperconducting tape conductors such that the at least onesuperconducting tape conductor with the layer of solder is wound aroundthe former, (b) winding a solder material between adjacent winds of thesuperconducting tape conductors, (c) arranging a solder material betweenat least two of the layers where the at least one layer comprises aplurality of layers, or (d) coating a layer of solder on the at leastone conductor of non-superconducting, conductive material.
 20. Amulti-phase cable comprising a bundle formed of a plurality ofsuperconducting cables of claim 1, each superconducting cable being asingle-phase cable associated with an electrical phase that is differentfrom the electrical phase associated with each other superconductingcable in the plurality of superconducting cables.
 21. A multi-phasecable comprising a bundle formed of a plurality of superconductingcables of claim 1, each superconducting cable being a single-phasecable, wherein at least two of the superconducting cables are associatedwith each electrical phase of the multi-phase cable.
 22. Thesuperconducting cable of claim 1, wherein the plurality ofsuperconducting tape conductors wound around the former are arranged inmultiple phases, and wherein each phase is electrically insulated fromeach other phase of the multiple phases.
 23. A multi-phase cablecomprising a bundle formed of a plurality of superconducting cables ofclaim 22, wherein a first phase of each of the superconducting cablesare electrically coupled together, and wherein a second phase of each ofthe superconducting cables are electrically coupled together.